Today’s News

Big Brother 14 Cast Revealed — But There's a Twist!

Every summer, Big Brother host Julie Chen warns viewers to expect the unexpected, but this year the game will really be turned upside down as 12 brand-new houseguests move in with four returning all-stars who aren't necessarily after the $500,000 grand prize.

"Four epic players — including fan favorites and winners — are coming in with their own agenda," teases executive producer Allison Grodner. "It's a game within a game, if you will." While the identities of these returning players and their goal are still under wraps ("It's not people from last season," Grodner insists), fans will notice a familiar name within the 12 new houseguests. Willie Hantz, the younger brother of Survivor villain Russell Hantz, will continue his family's reality TV legacy this summer. The cast also includes a heavy metal musician, house flipper, nurse and chef. Grodner describes the new faces as a "vibrant, different and interesting group. It's a mix unlike any other."

This marks the second year in a row Big Brother has invited back past houseguests, and while Grodner understands it might not be a popular choice with some fans, she argues it always helps to have familiar faces. "The truth is, there are some people we love to watch, and it will be interesting to see how they handle coming back.

Season 14's contestants will be greeted by an "urban pop" decor that Grodner describes as "very youthful." An array of headphones adorns the walls of a music-themed bedroom, while miniature robots and Godzilla action figures are scattered throughout the abode. Of course, there's always a chance Big Brother 's famous master of the takedown Zingbot could surprise the houseguests when they least expect it. Says Grodner: "We love the Zingbot, and I see him as being a part of Big Brother for years to come."

Big Brother 14 premieres Thursday, July 12 at 9/8c. The new houseguests are: